Ware Center to Host Benefit for Local Jazz Legend Keith Mohler

For three years, bass player Keith Mohler organized the hugely successful Jazz-in-the-Sky series for the Ware Center | Millersville University. With his extensive contacts -- locally, regionally and nationally -- Keith brought the best jazz musicians to Lancaster. His concerts nearly ALWAYS sold-out.

When health issues forced Keith to slow down a bit this spring, a group of his friends - all well-respected Jazz musicians - stepped up and said, "we need to do something for Keith." So Annie Carmitchell and Robin Work, aided by Beth Lowry (whose husband is a professional musician) decided to arrange a benefit concert of his friends and supporters to help pay for his enormous medical bills and current living expenses.

To date, the musicians slated to perform include: acoustic duo The Carmitchell Sisters (vocalist Annie and Bobbi); Rue de la Pompe which includes guitar-violin-accordion Ken Gehret, acoustic rhythm guitar David Francis and bass Bruce Campbell; Chris Heslop & the Hessie's Hot Jazz, which includes clarinet-saxophone-washboard Chris Heslop, tuba-trombone Ken Kemmerer, percussion Dave Young and banjo-guitar Josh Taylor as well as drummer Larry Marshall; bass Steve Meashey; pianist Steve Rudolph; band leader Ronnie Waters and vocalist Robin Work. All the musicians have released many CDs, played with the jazz greats and are in constant demand at local and regional clubs. Jazz afficiando Mayor Richard Gray will open the evening's festivities, with a salute to Keith. Pianist Colin Mekeell and friends will play during the reception. Mekeel, is an up and coming star in the jazz world, who was encouraged to pursue his musical career by Mohler.

"So many musicians stepped up and volunteered to help, our problem was limiting who got to play," Work said. "It was beautiful to see the outpouring of support and camaraderie."

The benefit at the Ware Center, 42 North Prince Street, Lancaster, PA on Thursday, July 17th will start at 7:30 p.m. and will be followed by a reception for attendees and performers alike and a chance to say hello to Keith Mohler, who will be attending, but not performing. Seating is limited and assigned. All tickets are $25 and include the post-show reception. To reserve your ticket, call 717.872.3811 or 717.871-2308. On the web at artsmu.com. Or in person at the Ware Center Box Office or the SMC Building on the MU campus. Box Office hours are Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM to 4 PM. All proceeds from ticket sales will go directly to Mohler. Musicians and other performers are donating their time and talent. The costs for the production and the reception are being sponsored by Millersville University.

Discount parking vouchers for the Prince Street Garage, located at the corner of North Prince and West Orange streets, are available upon check-in at the Front Desk of the Ware Center, 42 North Prince Street, Lancaster, PA.

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